Stopping hormone blockers
Hi
I was diagnosed with BC at the age of 40 in 2022 and have had surgery, chemo, radiotherapy and have been in remission since May 2023.
I went on hormone blockers straight after my active treatments finished. and was on them approx 8 months.
I tried 3 types of hormone blockers - Letrozole, exemestane, and Tamoxifen.
The adverse side effects were too much for me, and I chose to stop the tablets, chosing my quality of life over the possible the risk of recurrence.
I also had one zoledronic acid injection (as I was forced into menopause, having my ovaries removed), but have recently been informed that there is no benefit for me to continue the injections as I am no longer taking tamoxifen, and have not been on tamoxifen for over 6 months.
I made the choice at the time which was best for me. At first it was to take a break, and maybe return to taking my meds which did not eventuate as I felt so much better not on them.
I did not realise or maybe did not listen that the break could/would compromise the benefit of taking the meds, and that I couldn't just pick them up in the future.
I have some regret, but now feel like I have to live with the decision I made, which at the time was made when my life quality was not good, nor was my head space.
I was also told that without taking any treatment, I no longer need to see my oncologist is that right?
I guess I just wanted to share my story and see if anyone else could share if they decided not to continue with hormone blockers within the first year after active treatment.
Take care everyone 🩷
I was diagnosed with BC at the age of 40 in 2022 and have had surgery, chemo, radiotherapy and have been in remission since May 2023.
I went on hormone blockers straight after my active treatments finished. and was on them approx 8 months.
I tried 3 types of hormone blockers - Letrozole, exemestane, and Tamoxifen.
The adverse side effects were too much for me, and I chose to stop the tablets, chosing my quality of life over the possible the risk of recurrence.
I also had one zoledronic acid injection (as I was forced into menopause, having my ovaries removed), but have recently been informed that there is no benefit for me to continue the injections as I am no longer taking tamoxifen, and have not been on tamoxifen for over 6 months.
I made the choice at the time which was best for me. At first it was to take a break, and maybe return to taking my meds which did not eventuate as I felt so much better not on them.
I did not realise or maybe did not listen that the break could/would compromise the benefit of taking the meds, and that I couldn't just pick them up in the future.
I have some regret, but now feel like I have to live with the decision I made, which at the time was made when my life quality was not good, nor was my head space.
I was also told that without taking any treatment, I no longer need to see my oncologist is that right?
I guess I just wanted to share my story and see if anyone else could share if they decided not to continue with hormone blockers within the first year after active treatment.
Take care everyone 🩷
